The Arizona Diamondbacks face a challenging juncture in their season as they deal with significant injuries to key players. With Jordan Montgomery sidelined for the year due to Tommy John surgery and Ketel Marte and AJ Puk on the injured list, the team suffered another setback when closer Justin Martinez was placed on the 15-day IL with shoulder inflammation. Despite a promising start to the season, Martinez's velocity dropped, raising concerns about his health. Manager Torey Lovullo remains optimistic about Martinez's recovery and the possibility of utilizing their capable bullpen in the meantime.

As the team looks to fill the closer role, Lovullo mentioned Shelby Miller, Kevin Ginkel, and Ryan Thompson as potential candidates. Miller, with a strong season thus far, boasts impressive stats, not allowing a run in 12.2 innings pitched. His ability to execute pitches at critical moments positions him as a strong candidate for high-leverage situations. Meanwhile, Ginkel's recent return from injury adds depth to the bullpen, as he previously saved five games last season. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how the Diamondbacks navigate their bullpen strategy.

The latest Closer Report highlights Félix Bautista's impressive return to form post-surgery, showcasing his potential for fantasy leagues. Meanwhile, Justin Martinez's shoulder issues may pose a threat to his availability. David Bednar has regained his footing in the closer role for the Pirates, which could impact save opportunities moving forward.

In terms of fantasy rankings, Mason Miller has delivered a stellar start with a 22/2 K/BB ratio and is a top-tier choice. Andrés Muñoz remains unscathed with a 0.00 ERA, while Josh Hader showcases a strong strikeout rate. Edwin Díaz's health continues to be a concern, but he's shown flashes of brilliance. Bautista’s three saves this week hint at his resurgence, making him a must-watch as he climbs the rankings.

The Miami Marlins have made a key move ahead of the 2024 trade deadline, sending A.J. Puk to the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for infield prospect Deyvison de los Santos. Puk, who was once a top prospect with the Oakland Athletics, has transitioned to a reliable middle reliever since his debut in 2019. He has excelled this season with a 1.32 ERA and two saves for the Diamondbacks, though he is currently sidelined due to a flexor strain in his elbow. Despite the injury, the team remains optimistic about his recovery, believing he won't need surgery. In the meantime, Justin Martinez is expected to step into the closer role while Puk is out. Martinez boasts an impressive 0.90 ERA this season, demonstrating his potential as a strong replacement.

Devin Williams, the New York Yankees' new closer, entered the 2025 season as a highly valued fantasy asset thanks to his 1.83 career ERA and elite strikeout rate. After a stellar performance late last season with the Milwaukee Brewers, expectations were high for his role in New York. However, just weeks into the season, Williams has found himself among the most dropped closers on ESPN leagues following a series of inconsistent outings. A particularly troubling game against the Tampa Bay Rays saw him blow a four-run lead, raising concerns despite an underlying .423 BABIP indicating he’s been unlucky. Fantasy managers are urged to stay the course, as his performance should normalize.

Meanwhile, other closers like Jeff Hoffman of the Toronto Blue Jays and Kyle Finnegan of the Washington Nationals have seen their stock rise, with Hoffman perfect in save opportunities and Finnegan accumulating saves despite mediocre strikeout rates. Justin Martinez of the Arizona Diamondbacks is set to benefit from an increased role following the injury of A.J. Puk, while Jose Alvarado of the Phillies has stepped up as a reliable closer. Conversely, Baltimore's Felix Bautista is struggling and may need time to regain his pre-surgery form, prompting patience from fantasy owners.

In the evolving landscape of MLB bullpens, Justin Martinez has emerged as a strong candidate for saves with the Arizona Diamondbacks, especially in the wake of A.J. Puk's injury. However, Martinez's recent fatigue raises questions about his durability. Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox's Aroldis Chapman remains in the driver's seat for saves even as high-leverage scenarios challenge his availability.

In Chicago, Ryan Pressly’s grip on the closer role appears secure despite recent struggles from his teammate Porter Hodge. Meanwhile, the White Sox remain a team to avoid for saves, having yet to record one this season. The Cincinnati Reds’ closer situation is murky with Emilio Pagán competing against Alexis Díaz, who has had setbacks since returning from the IL, giving Pagán an edge.

For the Cleveland Guardians, Emmanuel Clase’s struggles signal potential buy-low opportunities, while Tommy Kahnle continues to dominate the ninth inning for the Detroit Tigers despite recent heavy usage. Lastly, Devin Williams’ recent performance with the New York Yankees raises concerns, making him a player worth monitoring closely in fantasy leagues.